In September, New York City offers visitors an event that is as moving as it is spectacular: Tribute in Light. Since 2002, this light installation has honored the memory of the victims of the attacks of 11 September 2001 by projecting two columns of light into the night sky, recalling the silhouette of the twin towers of the former World Trade Center. Every year on the evening of 11 September, these azure blue beams illuminate the city’s skyline, providing a breathtaking spectacle that can be seen for miles around.
An exceptional artistic installation
The Tribute in Light is much more than a simple event: it is a spectacular luminous tribute that has transformed the New York skyline every 11 September since 2002. This unique artistic installation consists of 88 xenon 7,000-watt projectors arranged in two 48-foot squares, creating two columns of blue light that rise into the sky more than 6 kilometers above the ground.
Designed by artists John Bennett, Gustavo Bonevardi, Richard Nash Gould, Julian LaVerdiere and Paul Myoda, this work was initially intended as a temporary tribute. However, in response to the emotional response and public demand, it has become an annual event organised by the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
When and where to see Tribute in Light
Times and duration
The installation will be illuminated from sunset until dawn on 11 September. The lights are turned on as soon as it gets dark and remain visible throughout the night, creating a particularly striking atmosphere of contemplation.
A remarkable ecological feature: the beams are switched off for periods of 20 minutes to allow migratory birds to escape the rays of light, reflecting the environmental awareness of the organizers.
Technical location
The spotlights are installed on the roof of the Battery Park Garage, located on Greenwich Street near Battery Park, a few blocks south of the original site of the World Trade Center.
The best vantage points
In Manhattan
The 9/11 Memorial Plaza is the most iconic observation point, open to the public from 3pm until midnight on 11 September. The emotion here is particularly intense.
For a different perspective, head to Washington Square Park or Union Square Park, two locations offering unobstructed views of the beams of light in a more relaxed setting.
Exceptional views from the water
The Staten Island Ferry offers a unique experience for observing the installation from the waters of New York Bay. This free ride lets you admire the view from a completely different angle, with the Statue of Liberty in the foreground.
New York Harbour cruises also offer privileged vantage points for visitors wishing to enjoy a more exclusive experience.
Secret spots in other boroughs
In Queens, Gantry Plaza State Park offers a breathtaking view of Manhattan and the beams of light. This quieter park lets you view the tribute in a more intimate setting.
Brooklyn Bridge Park is another excellent vantage point, particularly popular with photographers for its unique views of the skyline.
Beyond the five boroughs
For a truly unique experience, Richard W. DeKorte Park in New Jersey offers an exceptional panoramic view, often considered one of the best vantage points by regular visitors.
Extraordinary range and visibility
One of the most impressive features of the Tribute in Light is its phenomenal visual range. On a clear day, the beams are visible in a 97-kilometre radius, covering the whole of New York City, much of New Jersey, Long Island and even parts of Connecticut.
This exceptional visibility means that even if you’re not directly in Lower Manhattan, you’ll be able to see this luminous tribute from many points in the metropolitan area.
Visitor information
Climate and preparation
September in New York offers ideal conditions for observing the Tribute in Light. Temperatures are pleasant during the day and cool in the evening, so bring a few layers for the evening..
Visiting tips
- Arrive early if you wish to visit 9/11 Memorial Plaza, as it can be very crowded
- Take your time: the emotion of this unique moment is well worth your time
- Respect the atmosphere of contemplation that reigns around this tribute
Transport and accessibility
Public transportation is excellent at all the observation points mentioned. The Staten Island Ferry is particularly accessible and entirely free, departing regularly from Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan.
A unique symbol of resilience
The Tribute in Light represents “the most powerful beams of light ever projected from the Earth”, symbolising New York’ s unwavering resilience and the perpetual tribute paid to the victims of 11 September 2001.
For a visitor in September, seeing this installation is an overwhelming and unforgettable experience, combining art, history and emotion in a light show of rare power. It is a rendezvous with contemporary history that New York offers every year, transforming pain into beauty and memory into hope.
Questions about Tribute in Light
Yes, exclusively on 11 September. The installation is only activated one night a year, from sunset to dawn on 12 September. If you miss this date, you’ll have to wait until the following year.
No, it’s completely free! The Tribute in Light is visible from the public space. However, access to 9/11 Memorial Plaza may be restricted due to crowds – arrive early if you want to get there.
It depends on how thick the clouds are. On a slightly cloudy day, the beams create a spectacular effect by illuminating the clouds. In dense fog or very bad weather, visibility may be reduced, but the installation still works.
Yes, the ferry will run according to its usual schedule. In fact, it’s one of the best ways to see the installation! The ride is free and offers exceptional views from the water.
Theoretically yes, but it’s not ideal. Manhattan’s observatories offer a bird’s-eye view that doesn’t allow you to fully appreciate the height of the beams. Choose observation points at ground level or slightly higher up.
Yes, security is tight throughout Lower Manhattan. Expect extra checks and longer waiting times. Avoid large bags and arrive with patience.
